Question

Which option is an example of a complex sentence?

Answer 1

Answer:

Because it is cruel, the death penalty should be abolished

Explanation:

A p e x

Answer 2

Answer:

Sentence D is an example of a complex sentence.

Explanation:

A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. The difference between an independent clause and a dependent one is that the former can stand alone as a sentence as it represents a complete thought. The ungrammaticality of sentence A proves this point.  As you can see, without the independent clause (B), the dependent clause (A) does not represent a complete idea, it depends on the main clause to complete its meaning (C).

A) *Because it is cruel

B) The death penalty should be abolished

C) Because it is cruel, the death penalty should be abolished